Plans are underway for a complete transformation of the island’s capital into one of the best cities in the Caribbean, according to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit.
Speaking at a function at the Dominica State College on Monday morning, the Prime Minister said that in the near future his government will be sharing with the country a comprehensive plan to fully transform Roseau.
“You know when you walk in Roseau you go up and you go down … that will be something of the past,” he said. “I do not have all the money for it but I have some money to start it … we are putting the plans together we have contracted the services of an architect, engineer and they have sent me some drafts.”
The prime minister added that Roseau will become the best looking city in the entire Caribbean.
“All the roads will be redone, all the drains, all the sidewalks, and we will be calling on residents and business owners to repaint their buildings as part of this enhancement project, so that when we do the roads and everything else the buildings will also be painted and it will certainly be transformed,” he said.
He pointed out further that the project will be done in very difficult economic times.
In the meantime, the Prime Minister revealed that the government has gone over its budget by over $6-million for students studying overseas.
He added that over $2-million has been made available to the Ministry of Education for payments to be made for the students.
Roseau is a lovely quaint town. It just needs to be cleaned up.
The improvement of the sidewalks in Roseau is a very noble and necessary thing to do. This will significantly uplift the city of Roseau.
There also needs to be some sort of packing regulation introduced so individuals would not pack on the sidewalks..
I have read some of the comments made about Roseau and how backward the place is. For your information Roseau is one of the best laid out cities anywhere in the Caribbean. Like some of you mentioned it’s the dilapidated buildings and vacant properties that brings down the image of the city together with the filth that accumulates there in.
The bus-stops are another and the fact that there are no traffic laws being enforced. Oh I forget one, Dominicans peeing anywhere in Roseau at anytime of the day, thus the lovely aroma of urine throughout the city. .
There should be some legislation put in place to encourage individuals to develop their property within the city. This could be in the form of raising the property tax (yes I said it) on properties in the city.
The zoning laws need revamping, if you buy property in Roseau “commercially zoned”, you should be given no more than five years to develop the property or the government could exercise eminent domain and pay you market value and sell this property to the next legitimate investor/individual
Your tax should be based on the appraised value of the property. You have people with properties, non-productive for decades, then they place them on the market for hundreds of thousands, if that’s the value then you should be taxed accordingly.
.
NB ;sorry it’s parking not pack , that damn spell check.
Take note:
I mean “The bridges are now strong enough and in place to transport the heavy equipment”
Dominicans, rise up, all u dough, tired fight, and talk stupidness, y can’t we come together and build D.A….IIF the PM, say that let’s wait and see for ourselfs,lets hold hands and work together,
Nice try, but, Roseau cannot be transformed. Roseau looks the same since 1970.
I plan on going to Mars next week.
Give me a break! best city in the Caribbean………………….. Only folks who have not travelled will believe such foolishness from the PM. Roseau is so so backward and old fashioned, when Roseau would become like some of the Caribbean cities, well that would be when 5 year olds in Dominica would be adults…
The PM must stop making such empty promises… Its like He just cant find things to say….
That’s the biggest piece of nonsense in 2014, its like they have no plans.This Government is just guessing and making things worst for Dominicans…
Its time for this PM to go………… Oh how will repainting of such ugly buildings in the city make the place pretty…..
Its like the PM is just all over talking and talking ….. He doesn’t have all the money but going to start the best city project……Keep the city clean
@Francisco Telemaque April 1, 2014 “Elizabeth, with your situation, if you return to Dominica, to live permanently, I assure you the first time you have a headache, and they take you to Princes Margaret Hospital for treatment, you will walk in, however, you will be carried out feet first!”
Man why don’t you leave my comments alone, whom do you think you are to tell me how to live my Life? And who are you to decide what is right and what is wrong about our Prime Minister’s initiatives?
I suggest that you should “shut up” when it comes to Dominica and her development–for you are stuck in your darkness, negativity, and the bondage of debts in Los Angeles; you cannot leave to go anywhere much more for Dominica–so stop with all those stupid excuses.
I live in the Light–a stature of Life which you can never comprehend, just stay in your existence of darkness and the burden of payments for materials things ; let me live in my Light of the Spirit –it is much brighter in the Land of my birth and with my people.
Too bad that you cannot say that about yourself–foe you have no homeland and no people; just the miserable surroundings of that Twilight Zone of yours.
Not that I am against improving Roseau, but where is the money coming from? It must be raining money.
we need one defibrillator in princess Margaret hospital please sir.thanks….
Ahahhah boi that pm have guts wi ahhahha lol and are we the most stupidest people in the world.so long skerite saying he going to transform roseau. up to now he kia start lol .he say he was going to build a promenade up to now lol ahhahh.where the 4 million dollar prominade skerite say he wss going and build in april 2013 .where it???? Where the big money he get from alba??? Lol where it. Boi all you labourites really stupid eh lmfao hahah they tired fool all u wi hah .10 plus years all u screaming labour and all u kia even buy a pound of milk lol .idiots
I’m glad you admitted that this was in the works for a long time.
Clearly he hasnt been to the entire Caribbean, and the places I’ve been have infrastructure, not constructed by “government” but by private investors both local and abroad. Not grants from Moroco, France, China but from MR. J. Doe of ABCD Holdings group.. or group of companies based in Timbuctoo.
Second part of that problem is he hired or contracted “An” Architec/Engineer… things like that are done by architects or architectural firms through years of consultation. ohhh i forgot this is dominica…. we gonna build an airport for night landing but not an airport for jetliners and international carriers….
“Timbuctoo:
” Actually the correct spelling is ‘Timbuktu’ it an very old ancient town; home of the worlds first ever university in Mail West Africa, near Niger River: Timbuktu and Tom-bouc-tou is actually one of the same place with a population less than that of Dominica.
I believe the population is just about twenty-one thousand people!
Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
what you have written is purely speculation.
You spending money to uplift Roseau after You gave it to Chinese Business? Who else can it be for ?How many Dominicans own business in Roseau? Let the Chinese business uplift Roseau it is theirs.Why should We pay for it ?
Stupes!
more ignorance
Roseau NEED A A SERIOUS FACE LIFT!! ABOUT TIME I SUPPORT THIS
Hell yeah Skerro! Looking at Roseau frm the financial center is a sore to the eye! Roseau tired smell! Good one PM!
What other city would you like Roseau to look like?
Curacao?
You ignoramus. Curacao is the name of an island. The capital is called Willemstad. No wonder the P.M. lost at sea with supporters like you.
When referring to the a country or island we say Dominica , Zimbabwe , United Sates of America, very seldom do we use the capital city as a reference Roseau, Harare or Washington. There is no need to be condescending jojo .
You calling me ignorant? when Caribbean people refer/describe other Caribbean islands and their Capital/towns they use the name of the country… you never heard anyone saying look how developed Catries is, or wow Georgetown is so modern… whats the capital of Jamaica? We don’t say we going to Kingstown or Kingstown have crime we say Jamaica has crime. If you don’t get the lingo UDOHREADYET! Curacao
Wake up Dominicans all-u-cannot take a joke den! What happen the man could not wait for April 1st so he give his early; What an April “FOOL”.
“The prime minister added that Roseau will become the best looking city in the entire Caribbean.”
Mr. Prime Minister, there is nothing wrong about dreaming, however, after the dream, reality sets in: It is alright to dream of Roseau becoming the best looking city in the Caribbean, nonetheless, I suspect you know for a fact that such dream is only a dream, an impossible dream I may add!
Your thoughts are ambitious; however, you need to realize that Roseau is not owned by the government, all of the old dilapidated buildings in the city are owned by private citizens, therefore you cannot simply send a Bulldozer and bulldoze peoples’ property’s, and replace them; and even if you were to give every person in Roseau some paint, to paint these old buildings, that will not transform Roseau into the shingling city that you are dreaming of.
How are you going to compete with Trinidad, Barbados, Antigua, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and even a small island such a Grenada, and so many others islands in the Caribbean which are much more advance architecturally. There are sky Scrapers in Trinidad. Are you going to demolish all of those old concrete square boxes in Roseau within which our natives dwell, and replace them with all new buildings, and better architectural design?
That is the only way you will accomplish your dream!
The alternative should be to set new standards for building in designated areas, and the homes must be of modern design, and architecture, by implementing the change to modern day architecture, in a few years the change will become obvious I cannot visualize any significant change in Roseau developing from what we have in right now, except if you are going to provide the resource to the individual citizen to breakdown and rebuild something more modern to what they have now.
Mr. Prime Minister, if I were you, my priority at the moment would be the construction of an International Airport, that is significant, because it will generate employment, as long as people are gainfully employed they will do what it takes to improve their living standards, which includes getting involve into more modern architecture there is absolutely nothing you can do to Roseau as it stands to make it the best looking city in the Caribbean, unless you tear down every and all of those old buildings and rebuild a modern city.
My opinion is not to offend; nevertheless, we must face reality!
Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
So i would want to add and also remove some of your statements in your comment what i think is that he should develop Roseau because i was looking at a picture of Roseau i was like is that really the larges city in Roseau and i see that piece of land at the back could go really far back but he has to focus on getting more investments.I would also like to add that the fact you cannot make an international airport with out having a proper looking environment and remember that this economy depends on agriculture and tourism they main think would be to better the look of the country.Like on tv shows we need to make facilities that look great and appeal why do think those tv shows give away free vacations to people who participate in there show and they send them to Bahamas they have wonderful facilities and in this case i agree with what the PM said and by they way he said in the future he didn’t say now your talking like he is gonna do it right away.
Please breathe while writing so people can read and comprehend what you have written.
When it is complete you should visit your homeland. It is about time.
If we construct an International airport and the visitors see our capital they’ll run back on their plane and go to Jamaica!!
Even if his dream is long overdue the PM wants to transform Roseau all that is good vibes for the country. Remember everyone can dream and talk is cheap. If he feels like this good deed will prove a point then trust me he is right cause some people are easily persuaded! With all that being said I’m just hoping that the architect, engineers, contractors, workers etc… are ATLEAST SOMEWHAT DOMINICANS. Its time for the PM to stop acting like Dominicans have nothing to offer and give the people work to do if he feels like we are not professional enough then implement training programmes instead of giving a man a salary of $8000.00 a month!
Labour we have gotton up from that bad dream.that dream of the ununited waste of party.i have travelled all about and da is the best.in miami any time you call the ambulance the cost is uS600 how much does it cost in da.those who have eyes can see, those who arrive here have eyes too see,we are developing 5000 job lost in barbados but you still cannot see so we labourites will make you all understand. just a little over a month we will see LABOUR THE REDS WILL BE OUT. CANT WAIT FOR THE DATE TO BE CALLED.
LABOUR LABOUR LABOUR
One of the biggest failures and disappointments of this government: Roseau.
Did someone finally say something about it? Or is it just ‘timing’ to say something about it?
If the government decide to transform Roseau serious action need to be taken like development countries did to transform their city, first if the owners of these old houses refuse to renovate or build a new building, ever the government relocate these house owners or compensate them,it happening very day in develop countries, The government should be only to transform a country the people should take part too and corporate with the government.
Wow….people actually believing this?
Hahahahahahahahahaha. Well we stupid in Dominica if we do.
In the run up to the last general election the Labor Party said they were going to transform Roseau into the “premier city” of the Caribbean. In 2014 Roseau stinks.
In 2012 Skerrit told parliament that ALBA was funding to the tune of $4 million the Roseau Promenade. According the the government this would TRANSFORM Roseau. They even had drawings and animations of this so-called Promenade. Construction was to begin in April or May 2013.
UP TO NOW.
Where is the promenade? Where is the $4 million from ALBA? LMFAO
And those blind Dominicans jumping up as if God has spoken. When are these people going to wake up? Are Dominicans that stupid???
I hope this is not about politic, what about all these old houses have Roseau look like a bandon City if those old houses do not demolish the city will not be able to transform Mr. Skerit.
Your government cannot even start a river defence wall along Roseau River promised at least three years ago is transformation of Roseau you can manage? Did you not know of the “ups and downs” of the side walk when you found over $30,000,000.00 to build palace in Roseau? UWP team woke you up again eh.
DNO Labour Party operatives are bugging peoples computers and their comments are being posted an Anonymous and other such names. Can you provide protection to your patrons in this regard
What we need is a New City!! Shutdown that disaster called the canefield airport and turn the entire property into a new city… Roseau is a MESS there’s no possibility for expansion and growth in Roseau…
And while you’re at it, tear down all of Roseau and create an International Airport out of it!
That’s a great idea. I said that many years ago.
Proud to be a labourite, and you will see many reds on may the 5th 2014, UWP will get loose bowel, and when the date for election is called more goose bumps for workers and when we beat you all stand lennox will sing IT IS RAINNING ALL AROUND ME. hahah i cant wait
labour laboour labour we waiting for that day MAY THE 5TH.
transform it to what? the new china town?!
“we are putting the plans together we have contracted the services of an architect, engineer and they have sent me some drafts.” Boy look joke! So no town planner and no consultation but they putting plans together. Everything is really back to front and inside out in this country. We’ll allu can vote for skerritt again but don’t blame him when he doesn’t deliver because he says that” he” doesn’t have the money. This is the talk of a desperate man trying to outdo the opposition.
What about te new comany of 2011 called DSDI. They had some huge plans and they said they had already met wit cabinet to implement the plans.
Boy look promises right now I even Bazoodi. Since Lennix Linton and his team landed Skerrit alone making promises like promises going out of style. I knw for sure he can’t remember all thse promises cause he making sh&&&&t up on the go. What about the boat for the farmers that was repromised and repromised again last year; the Georgetown Land; marina in Prtmouth. Abatoir run out of gas; ee Library, Roseau promenad internationalAkrport, two fie star hotel; doh even talk about roads promised all over the island; 500 jobs in September;
Oh boy I have never seen such no,d face lies and in four face genal in Dominica. One man just have the country in a state of trance and one man fooling the people with so much horse manure .
Get rid of all domlec wires
This is good news and one to look forward to. Hope this will commence and accomplish soon. I expect it will take a few years.
Dominicans who are also abroad should be elated about this. When the overall transformation is completed, Roseau will be beautiful and a pleasure to visit.
and treees!!! plant some trees
i suggest cobblestone streets like in st marten in roseau. easy to fix and last muuuuch longer.
One of my ideas.
This is low hanging fruit. If is already a lovely town.
With some tender loving we can make it a city to visit.
Yes, it takes more than one architect, some funds and time.
We Dominicans are our own worse eneies…..one of those days…God will put a hold on the electricity….even God is crying….maybe we all should turn off our cell phones for one year and donate the funs in the name of our country….
Skerrit, when Chavez was alive you DID NOT transform Roseau. When Gaddafie was alive, you DID NOT transform Roseau. When Castro was president you DID NOT transform Roseau. When You were getting money as though you alone had a money tree you DID NOT transform Roseau. WE all know what and who you transformed. You transformed yourself, transformed your friends and business partners, transformed your inner circles and your advisors. So after 14 years of utter hell on earth you failed to transform Roseau and now you promising to transform Roseau? Man this statement is your knockout punch as by it we all agree that you agree that you on your way out. Peter Wycam (can’t remember his last name} must have given you extremely bad news of what is happening on the ground and now you don’t know what next to do and promise.
Some people cannot stand the thought of anything good happening in Dominica. Mention something good and they go in a frenzy of abuse. With citizens like that who needs aliens?
Oh my! What negativism! How disgusting and depressing! Can some of you not write something inspiring and encouraging coupled with appreciation and gratitude for a change?
Some of you complain about Roseau. Now that he plans to do something about it to enhance it, you criticize. What is wrong with you?
Such exaggeration. You want to know about Hell? Go to Hell and you will experience what Hell is like and what living in Hell forever is.
The man is going to turn Roseau into his final destination. I surely cannot see anything wrong with that. I have been wishing to see the capital in a better state.
To finish your phrases the Chineses are still alive so he is going to try.
This is welcoming news. And needs to happen. Please don’t use expensive consultants. Have focus groups to include experts, residents, visitors, business owners etc. Give the people of Dominica a chance to have a say on how their city is developed.
Some suggestions to include:
– Street lighting
– Clear road signs
– Covered drainage system
– Parking areas
– A proper depot for the buses
– A grant of some sort to help residents and shop owners to help them to paint and fix up the frontage of their properties
– A nice shopping area
It is not impossible for Roseau to become one of the prettiest Caribbean city, it just takes planning and executing!
It’s a great idea. However it will not happen under this administration. This is just ‘electioneering’.
You could forward your suggestions to the PM or your MP. I am certain they will be appreciated.
I do hope there will be street lights on main streets, at certain intersections. The traffic is heavy and these are badly needed including proper sidewalks.
Hmmm hmmm. Allah alah alah. It s 2014 and Domincans still getting excited about foolishness coming from the mouth of Politicians.
What about the streets paved with marble .
Now notice that it is always he Skerrit that is getting or gets the “draft” – one of his favorite word . Notice to it s always about him ” I have the money ” . The send the daft to “me”
Ask him who te city planing engineer is – iam sure he does not avian answer how does paving the road and sidewalk make Roseau te most beautiful city in the Caribbean. How does that happen. Clearly this guy is off his marbles. Can’t even believe that in 2014 people can buy such crap.
To begin to ake Roseau appealing we ave to start asking sewage disposal system, storm drain, traffic control and traffic handling.
Your suggestions are right on the dot but a nice shopping area seems like you are looking for blood.
I agree with you 100 % but we also need to place underground pipes for the electrical lines
STAGES OF METAMORPHOSIS:
1.Egg
2.Larva
3.pupa
4.Adult
The real question is whether or not Dominica is conceived already….Yet still the poor island is forced to be an adult.
Envy and criticism will get you nowhere. This is welcome news to also those of us who reside abroad and other well-meaning and appreciative D/can residents. You have left yourself out of it. Due to your evil comments, you did not place.
If you have nothing good to state, you should have stated nothing.
And you believe this is going to happen.All the old buildings need to be demolished and rebuild in modern style. Only now dimples seeing Roseau as an eye-sore.After 14 long years?
Hear a pm’s expression . “When you walk in Roseau you go up and you go down” No wonder he cannot debate Lennox.
And if we want the best city in the Caribbean is drainage and painting that will accomplish that? Alas,garcon look marjee in our country
Hope they can fix the streets of Roseau and build safer sidewalks to avoid having our children and seniors dodging traffic by jumping on sidewalks to avoid getting hit. And I hope that they can include a couple parking lots to avoid congestion it can also be a way to generate income for the city by charging fees as little as $1 an hour.
Write your PM or your MP and inform them about it. This is what concerned and well-meaning nationals who are interested in D/ca’s progress do.
This is a great idea, but there are some issues with this plan.
1. The design of Roseau cannot be significantly altered because the property is privately owned.
2. We need to think of developing undeveloped areas, such as Stock Farm.
3. I would relocate the Roseau Market to Stock Farm and use that area for a multipurpose building to include a tourism welcome center on the first floor, restaurant and bars on the second and a modern movie theatre/performance-center on the third and four floors.
Now there are some ideas that make sense. This would clear all the clutter on the bay front and give vendors a proper facility where they can peddle their goods and services.
Your suggestions and advice are not feasible.
Relocate ROSEAU Market to STOCKFARM???????? Lord bless the minds of our people! lol i almost died reading that garbage! SMFH
Anthony is this your version of an April’s fool joke? Who in their right mind would go to Stockfarm for their market shopping, seriously? Market is not just market you know, it is also a meeting place and you have all other services & shops around it.
And of course you can change Roseau. Govt. or even the council can use their power of a compulsory purchase order to buy property as long as they can demonstrate it is for the common good. That happens in countries all over the world.
“You know when you walk in Roseau you go up and you go down …” Please speak properly to a college audience.
Hahahahahaha . You go up up up and you go down down down
As bad as the Prime Minister’s English might be, I believe the reporters have a duty to report in standard English because both Dominicans and non – Dominicans around the globe read the news online. Myself being a non – Dominican. Unless they don’t know any better themselves.
The critics are out in full force as usual.
Democracy at work!
Nice JOb! Joseph Isaac. I was happy when you mentioned this on Q95 last week.
@darrr March 31, 2014 So when are u giving us a shopping mall smh!!
Your attitude and the majority of Dominicans–from who are like you is the reason our homeland is so behind.
The men and women of Government are just a few people–they were chosen to guide us into the projects of development for Dominica–everyone of us with a vision–they were not appointed to do everything–from their own ideas.
I live in a City where there are huge shopping malls all over the place–if the people of Toronto were simply waiting on the Government to do all such things–Canada on the whole would not be such a rich country.
And so I leave this for you and the rest like you to take heed of; it is one of the messages of Life in the Book of Life–the Holy Bible
The Folly of Indolence–Proverb 6: 6-11
(6) Go to the ant, you sluggard!
Consider her ways and be wise,
(7) Which, having no captain,
Overseer or ruler,
(8) Provides her supplies in the summer,
And gathers her food in the harvest.
(9) How long will you slumber, O sluggard?
When will you rise from your sleep?
(10) A little sleep, a little slumber,
A little folding of the hands to sleep—
(11) So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler,
And your need like an armed man.
Dear Elisabeth, please believe me we do know the bible some of us perhaps even more than you do. There is no need for you to bombard us with this stuff. What we need is real action, not only preaching, well intended as it may be.
Malgraysa March 31, 2014 “What we need is some action”
That is what my message is about–you people need to put your minds and your ideas to work; instead of sitting around with the mind of laziness and expecting that the government will do everything. That is my reason for the story of the ants in the Bible– it is a Life principle.
I am a Citizen of Canada; I do not have to go anywhere, I can die here if I choose to do so. But my vision is in Dominica, my homeland. When I am there I will not ask the government to put this vision in form for me–the way you people are doing.,
How easy it is to quote scriptures and the likes. Just as it is easy to give promises especially at election time. We know and understand government and especially politicians that wait until election time to offer all types of promises. The problem is not opposition to building up Roseau, airport ect., but the lies we have been hearing from our elected officials. Certainly, we all will love to see a new Roseau but, that will take more than promises, religious quotations, or speeches from politicians that know the impossibilities and downright lies. Who will build Dominica will not be left for politicians because we know the power of money. But the average citizen that understands the strength, the will, the minds of the people that want, and will participate in changing the structure, the direction of the country. We can all sit back in a foreign land, talk about those that criticize government, and beat up on the PM. The point is, the country is on the wrong direction, Roseau is an old, dilapidated town, and too many people are set in their ways but, the people of Roseau must be ready, be part of that change. As long as we start the weak promises, the beating up on those that doubt the PM’s promises at election time, we will not get anywhere. It is good to hear that this is my homeland, and how sweet D/ca is but, when election rhetoric prevails, people have a right to voice their opinions regardless. We all wish for that transformation but lets be serious, our PM has a history, and many of us have that history to deal with. Peace ect., comes only when we all do our part honestly.
That is the reason I am going back my homeland, my home sweet home, my Dominica–I cannot stop thinking about it. Toronto, Canada is not my home; regardless of all her riches.
It is in my mind that Dominica will become transformed–not only Roseau–to be a haven of peace, harmony, and tranquility for her people.
Mr. PM you have spoken the words of my thought–those words will be manifested in their physical form, but by your attitude of humility and your conduct of obedience to our God, who does His work through men and women like you.
O God, Your will be done, by the hands of Your chosen servants in our Dominica–I know this is Your plan..
Elizabeth, with your situation, if you return to Dominica, to live permanently, I assure you the first time you have a headache, and they take you to Princes Margaret Hospital for treatment, you will walk in, however, you will be carried out feet first!
I know you like certain politician, “your new found friend.” I like certain minister also, but people need to face reality, and what our Prime Minister has said I cannot take it seriously because I know the probability of him accomplishing such mission, is zero to nil in reality zero to zero, plain and simple.
We must have the courage to face people and tell them the truth! All the statements you made in both your comments are hypocritical, and I say this to you with all the love in my heart. The plans the Prime Minister has suggested is a waste of time.
If we wish to change the status quo, it would be much better to commence the construction of a new City, and it can be done, and would be much less expensiveness. We should take an example from Brades Montserrat.
Remember the volcano devastated half the island of Montserrat, the main city of Plymouth is covered under Volcano ash and Laver. Nevertheless, the five or seven thousand population of Montserrat has rebuild a new City “Brades.”
There are is a solution to every problem or situation, the Prime Ministers suggestion here is not the appropriate resolve for Roseau at this time.
Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
I have concluded, as many heads there are it is as many opinions we will get. Let us hope the “New Roseau” will be a reality. Pray and hope for the best. Roseau needs a face-lift.
Let us be positive. Nothing beats a failure but a trial and perseverance. Encouragement is badly needed among all those who comment on this Website.
Live and act positively. It is a sure sign of a happy and peaceful heart, peace of mnd, disposition/ temperament and godliness.
Mr Dods-Telemaque please don’t bother yourself too much with all the inconsistencies that is being thrown around.
Opportunities to transform Roseau have been talked about over and over but what irks me is that this sitting government had opportunity to at least make sections of the city look good and what did they do? Sat on their hands.
You know quite a lot about Wadadli, don’t you? The cruise ship terminal that is there and was built at a tune of xxx million dollars who did it?
Four years ago ,the now sitting President was addressing a function and he said “Roseau will be the prettiest city in the O.E.C.S.” he gave the reason that “they” were going to transform the port area like what is in Antigua,thousands would be employ and the bayfront would get back some order.Ask Mr President what happened.
Some people come on here and want to crucify Dominicans for being negative,can you blame them? The same sh— every time and no action to back it up. Is it the sisserou that making us chat like that?
Castries was like Roseau, but a plan was put in place to develop that city and make meaningful towns all over Lucia (Grow Islet, Soufriere,Vieux Fort) every blasted thing is in Roseau, the rest are just names so Roseau is bursting at the seams and nobody seems to care is just talk and talk and talk.
The Ruins bar is still in operation,didn’t the government say to move so a vendors arcade or plaza can be built? The cruise passengers are saying so many nasty things about our country on the different sites. Nobody is coming forth with a plan to built bathroom facilities? Our people they say are mean and angry,they shop from them and ask them to use their bathroom and they say “it’s not working” and I prove it for myself,I was in DA carnival time with my family and they did the same crap to me ,after shopping and wanting to contribute something to the economy .So I realized what the guests were saying on cruise pages.
Dominica is my country and I’ll always love and care about her well being. Some blogger coming and say contact your M.P please Madam/Sir whoever you are this is non existent.
In 2011 I wanted to make a major contribution to my village,I walked after my M.P. ,when you get to the ministry the line of people waiting,I have never seen that in Dominica. Finally I was seen by a former classmate who inquired and I told him (a minister) he took me to his office where more people were lined up and I asked what’s going on,but I won’t get into that.
The minister made one call and before Jack could say Robinson I was ushered to the Financial Center and the “Man” said “everybody always want from the government,and you giving? I told him I’m contributing to my village not the government. I cannot say anything about him,he was professional and courteous and what I contributed to was completed before I left DA. Workers were on the job night and day because the ” man” I will match what you are doing because it’s a shame.
funny….. i”d have sworn that i heard that promise from the UWP last week.
looks like evewrything workers say he wants to usurp it and claim it as his idea
Dominica will soon be having a rail network from Grand Bay to Portsmouth. Have you not heard Dominicans?
Yes Yes , I know you thinking that I am joking. Exactly, that is just a big fat joke. That is exactly how I feel when I hear the Pm talk, his exact words, we are putting the plans together we have contracted the services of an architect, engineer and they have sent me some drafts.”
That is not how you get a city being the best. It should be made up of a team of Architects, Town Planners and Engineers , Business People and most of all the general public.
So his idea of Roseau being the best city in the Caribbean based on his plan is like my idea of the rail network from Grand Bay to Portsmouth,BONKERS
Allu just hear Team Dominica saying that they have a master plan to make Roseau the greenest and most beautiful city in the caribbean so allu running in front now. Don’t go and do no coshonee in a hurry to gain votes eh unless you all plan on utilizing a good comprehensive approach. Because is this is a vote getting scam it will be the same half and half nonsense all over again like the airport project and still we don’t have passenger jet service. I will keep watching allu papa but Change is still a must, NOT an option.
Assertive, NOT Agressive!
If Dominicans want a government that is working for the people they need to give that government 11 seats.
This should be easy to understand.
And every body will see nice road, big state house and they will say boy Dominica develop, but we all know there are no jobs and is just a China town you building. All rope has an end.
This Prime Minister needs to stop talking garbage. You are talking about man?
Your words copied and pasted,we have contracted the services of an architect, engineer and they have sent me some drafts.”
Are you raving mad, one architect and a engineer to make Roseau the best city in the Caribbean? You better come again. What about the Town Planners, The Landscape Architects. What about a group of architects as opposed to one. What about the people? What about investors? Man you Mad Mad Mad.
Why does this Prime Minister always refer to the peoples government as I? I have the money, I am going to make Roseau the best city. What is up with you boss. Your Ego is really getting out of hand now.
There are so many things you want to do right now I don’t know if you know where you will be starting. New Hospital, New Library, New Roads, A whole new Roseau city and the list goes on.
What happened to the last 14 years man, were you in hibernation. Well all those who want to get excited about this man flying pigs idea then I say best of luck to them.
Its CRUNCH TIME and the PM knows it, hence the reason why he is coming out with all these pie in the sky ideas.
It is also every man for themselves and the political preservation of ones self. Watch Out my People
De kwas, a.ka. “la westah”, that looking like Roseau; all big projects done gone where the world-class real estate is right?
Skerro your time pass, we don’t want u know more, stay home at your mansion in Vielle Case and don’t come back to Roseau.
Good initiative, but what about the Town of Portsmouth.
Look how long DOWASCO has done excavation on Harbour Lane and Rodney Street and nothing has been done yet to repair the roads. When? when? when?
“I have the money ” This guy is certainly not narcissismsound. ” Rousseau will become the best looking city in the Caribbean”. By paving the roads and the sidewalks?. All you , Mr Ok huh. Seriously is this guy ok.
Architect, Engineer sent “me” the draft. Huh. narcissists and more. It is time to get rid of this bad bad memory and mistake
Skerrit!
You mean to tell me you have the testicular fortitude to say that painting the corroding metal sheets which presently decorates Roseau is what you meant by the term “Transformation of Roseau into one of the best cities in the Caribbean”? Are you serious Sir?
I read the article because I thought seriously for once that Roseau was about to get a makeover! But oh please!!!!
Parry, I would tell the Prime Minister even though some of his supporters refer to him Jesus, in order to transform Roseau, he just cannot stretch a rod over Roseau in a Moses stile and expect Roseau will be transformed. He should put a strong planning team together with a time frame, ask for a comprehensive plan to be presented which he would subsequently present to Dominicans for their recommendations etc. This viteevie manner of doing things will not work.
Congratulations are in order Mr.P.M But before this is actually finalized my advise to you is that please bring on board the utility companies ,LIME,DOMLEC. DOWASCO,DIGICEL AND THE CABLE TV. COMPANIES and discuss with them the possibility of re-locating the lines underground this in fact will bring a even better facelift to the city.The next move is that you re-locate the residents of some of the houses on River and Hillsborough Streets ,construct apartment Houses and Rent to Own or some of them can purchace on completion.
Just last week I heard Joseph Isaac laying out plans to transform Roseau into a Model Green City. Today I hear the PM echoing the same sentiments. I cannot believe that after 15 years its only now labour eyes fall on Roseau. Everyone complaining about the bad roads, vagrants, parking problems, chaos with vendors, derelict buildings…but it all fell on deaf ears….PM this is too little too late..UWP will transform Roseau into a Model Green City.
If you want to be honest with yourself you will admit that this is not the first time you are hearing this.
You should tell me last the PM spoke about transforming Roseau and what plans have been implemented. I am aware that Baptiste and Associates did a Roseau Development Plan. Was that implemented. There is also the Roseau Road Reinstatement Plan. That is also taking dust. What about plans for a Vendors Arcade, Roseau River Promenade, ect. Action speaks louder than words and there has been absolutely no action at all.
After Fourteen Years with a Mayor who just left office because of term limits and its only now we are talking od transformation of Roseau. Hon. PM if it took you fourteen years just to transform Roseau guess Portsmouth will have to wait for another fourteen. What a visionary Labar leader.
Let people tink our pm hav time for uwp magee ,,foward we go an leave uwp in there magee..owp is not noting in dominica so wen day speak dont answer no debate hav noting to prove to dem.we dominican happy wth our gov an pm and lets be happy in our countr.139 new jobs every month ,u must be a real fool to buy dat,an he unemployed,look a joke..loj.build our country for us skeritt,,u doing a good job,,uwp can never win,sick set of pple,,
after all skerrit is not a perfect leader but he tries. He cannot make bread out of stone All you have all kind of negative comments. At least from 1995 Dominica has taken a big step in national development.
WHERE ?????????????????????
A huge step.
Just more talk
When is the PM thinking of raising the living standards of Dominicans.Dominica has the lowest standard of living in the eastern caribbean.The real problem is the PM has lost the link with his own people.
But the World Bank and IMF disagrees with you. So do the majority of Dominicans. If you don’t believe me wait till next elections.
“I DO NOT HAVE ALL THE MONEY FOR IT BUT I HAVE SOME OF IT” Mr. PM really. Now the country money belongs to you.I know you are really good at begging.But you not begging on your behalf.OR ARE YOU???
What arrogance lack of respect to all the hard tax payer of this country.
Great vision don’t trust UWP not for second
You’ve been there for ten years and the roads, drains, sidewalks, and Roseau have also been there for ten years. Only now you see that Roseau needs to be transformed? Well …Newsflash….Not only does Roseau need transformation, Our government needs transformation. Sorry the UWP alarm clock woke you up…continue to sleep my brother…..I wonder if the road to your palace needs to be transformed. I bet you not. How ironic that Roseau is going to be transformed just before an election. Stop treating us like we do not have brains…
But the World Bank and IMF disagrees with you. So do the majority of Dominicans. If you don’t believe me wait till next elections.
A good initiative but a complementary effort is needed OUTSIDE of Roseau. Why… for years we have been told that Dominica has one of the highest concentrations of potentially active volcanoes in the world. It is one of the few islands in the Lesser Antilles arc that has more than one major potentially active volcanic centre: in fact it has seven. Five of these are located in southern Dominica within 10 km of the capital, Roseau. For this reason we need to seriously think what are our long long term priorities.
There would be no place to cover if a volcano erupted.
10,20,30.
Welcome to Penville.
I think the gentle man going and talk about building malls, massive car parks, and so on wii….the gentle man is speaking about rebuilding roads and painting houses? what sort of development is that?….i suspect that’s where our government strong….building road. Thanks anyway…lol
Uust be uwp supporter,must,,,tell me wat country d gov builds malls ,u dont want movies too,strip clubs,,u want d giv to open a footlocker too,,god not a police,,all u sum real kind if people,,
hopefully that will come afterwards but Lord knows those drains and roads need major revamp. It might be easier to do it with a massive carpark in existence though since the roads would be cleared to better undergo the project but hopefully those will come at some point too. I think it’s a good and long overdue initiative.
laughing my a off
All of a sudden you want to fix road… where were you passing to go Morne bruce?? Helicopter??
Funny but you may well be right. I have always envisaged that Roosevelt Skerrit would be have a helipad installed in front of the State House, so that distinguished visitors can be ferried either direct from Melville Hall, or neigbouring islands by helicopter so that they may bypass any possible embarrassments on the way.
Negativity is rife among the suppoters of the opposition to the point where you guys are confusing me. @ Mamiez: if he has been using a helicopter to get to Morne Bruce then there is absolutely no need to fix the streets of Roseau!! @ Malgraysa: you seem to be more willing to accept a helipad at the State House than a facelift for Roseau so that you could and your cronies could sit back and criticize!!! Is fouchette you talking!!
What a great Leader! You are the best among the rest. The UWP cannot deny the fact that you have performed and continues to demonstrate your ability to lead. We know that you care about the people and that you are serving from the heart, and so we will rally around our Government and Leader on May 5th. You have certainly earned 5 more years. Remain focused and do not be distracted! DLP for the continued development of Dominica!
you mean after UWP made that one of their plans last week, the PM making this anouncement.
Hmm first was to bring them state college students in the state palace and give them 2 bottles of Diamond Blue Water, now he maybe find the turnout was not as expected so he going up state college and telling them about what is “coming soon” for Roseau. PM tell them how you can make education free for all, not for some, and not to beg for it. and also tell them how you have enhanced the economy to create jobs for them when they leave.
Roseau seriously needs a make over the city is wayyy to getto!!
That should be the second thing, they should have done, when they move from agriculture to tourism, its 15 years too late
So when are u giving us a shopping mall smh!!
I am sorry for you Mr.or Miss darr but you can investigate there is no where that you have Malls in any part of the world that malls are being built by Governments.Malls are being built and owned by private sector companies like Insurance,etc.Roads,Sidewalks,Drains ,Bridges that is what Governments build and construct,so you as a private individual if you have the capacity and the land somewhere the Aid Bank will give you the loan because it is a profitable investment
First and foremost I must say that this is a brilliant idea. We need to lend our support to anything that is going to benefit our lives.
In the past we have supported projects based on if our party is doing it or not. This is a stupid!!!
All parties have been guilty of doing this and we need to stop now!! If the labor party had continued with the international airport then Dominica would be further ahead. When the UWP came to power if they had handled the layout river project differently things could be different.
If the UWP wins the election I hope they continue with the geothermal project because I think it’s good for the country.
Now when a country selects a government people should not be fixated on nice development projects but on the living standard or poverty level of the citizens.
Yesterday I was looking at a documentary called the filthy rick. Equatorial Guinea one of the most corrupt countries in the world was featured. Wow one of the most beautiful countries – nice roads, buildings, etc. Guess what? About 80% of the country citizens are living below the poverty line while the ruling party and his close supporters are living in unbelievable wealth.
Be honest!!! Which of you believes that because of the nice buildings and roads that this is a good government?
I personally spoke to one of the closest friends of the PM who boasted about his wealth. I have NO problems with people being wealthy but some of the things he told me were disturbing.
So it’s up to the people to decide if they are going to continue to support a PM that has failed!!!
1. 80% of Dominicans are slipping further and further into poverty while the PM and his ministers seems to be doing very good
2. A place where justice is reserved for a select few
3. Where a PM have no respect for the people and his own ministers.
4. Where the level of healthcare in the country has reached its lowest point
5. Where we have seen corruption at the highest level…. We ALL know what is going on
6. A government that fights small business and its policies has seen the extinction of a once vibrant agricultural sector. Gave 1 mile to the Chinese who is now providing vegetables to whitchurch
7. A government that has more pride in giving hangouts as opposed to creating an environment where people can work and small businesses can strive
8. A place where freedom of speech the rights of people are slowly been taken from them (sometimes my mum is scared to talk politics to me on the phone)
9. And more
Ha Ha,I read your article and this part,(sometimes my mum is scared to talk politics to me on the phone) I can definitely relate to that cause my mum is the same.
I was shocked that this is the fear which has not gripped the people of this nation. You are so right and this is no joke
None of what you say are facts. I challenge anybody to do a real scientific survey and see what you will find. This is undoubtedly the best administration this country have ever seen.
….@Anonymous I suppose that your last comment is backed up by said facts and such a scientific survey as you recommend.
You need to see Dr. Rickets for your myopia.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and your level of analysis. It is uncommon on this news site to say the least. I often browse the comments just to get a sense of where people’s thoughts are and often just get myself depressed. Great to see that there are still rational Dominicans who can look at both sides of the coin and offer both positive comments and critique where it is required. Well Said!
There is one-thing that you simply needed to be reminded of, there is a difference between what you think of something and what that thing really is. You should also be reminded that assumptions and perceptions are not facts.
You have written such nonsense and misrepresented facts, such as saying “80% of Dominicans are slipping further and further into poverty while the PM and his ministers seems to be doing very good”. How did you arrive at such percentage regarding Dominicans slipping into poverty, such is the nonsense I’m talking about. Another such written nonsense by you “A place where freedom of speech the rights of people are slowly been taken from them (sometimes my mum is scared to talk politics to me on the phone) ” why would you say such thing as though it is a fact about your Country.Have you not listen to the radio talk shows,is that signs of freedom of speech and rights taken away from people slowly.You 8 points regarding the Government is such a misrepresentation and distortion coming from you and not
that of any friend of the PM, another of your subtle cleverness to substantiate your nonsensical beliefs.
When you say quote ” when a country selects a government people should not be fixated on nice development projects but on the living standard or poverty level of the citizens.” “nice development projects” can be relative and have a different value to people in different Countries that you do not understand, the living standard or poverty level of a country is not necessarily the sole barometer to gauge how happy and prosperous a Country is. It seems to me you are one of those who believe that Governments are elected to alleviate poverty and bring prosperity to it’s people, what a shallow view, wake up.You need to know that the documentary you saw about Equatorial Guinea cannot be compared to Dominica.
Good job PM continuing doing all what you can do to make Dominica better.
We have been in Dominica part time for eight years. Every time we come back, something new has been built, something remodeled, something painted. Being there every day might make it harder to notice. Change is already happening. Keep it up. Having a financial boost might help speed up the change. While we can’t be there full time, we love Dominica.
I’m sorry, but as a visitor you are naive. The government deliberately acts where it is most visible, not where it is most needed. And talks more than acts, and promises but then hopes no-one remembers. Ultimately, the government has done more of what the Chines, Venesualans, Jepanese and Europeans want, than what the Dominicans need
well said
Geothermal, coffee plant, abattoir, better roads to improve commerce, improved healthcare, running water for all. If these are not avenues to boost our economy then what is?
we dont want “you and your government” to transform roseau, we want means and avenues of obtaining the resources that we need to transform roseau as a nation and not as a government. bless us with the gift that keeps on giving so we can obtain and invest….boost or economy. everything after that will fall into place…… some of us are tired of waiting for govenment to do somthing for us. What we want, is for “the govenrmet” to assist in a way that will put us in a position where we can do somthing for ourselves……. you know, be a leader and not a babysitter
Geothermal, coffee plant, abattoir, better roads to improve commerce, improved healthcare, running water for all. If these are not avenues to boost our economy then what is?
I’m of the impression that you simply did not understand the point that i was attempting to bring across. I do not blame you for being so narrow minded because you simply could not comprehend.
Garcon, stop trying to fool people. Instead of you packing up to get out of there, you’re talking nonsense. Definitely Roseau will receive a facelift but not by you A
Here we go again. Promises and more promises. We have heard the same cocioneee from Cecil, Ambrose, TimTim, Irene and now Skeritt. Just shut up, do your thing, end of story.
Fantastic initiative! it’s about time… Roseau needs an upgrade bad bad bad!
The dream team UWP out layed there plans for Roseau so now Skerrit is making folks believe he has a plan he is taking the very same ideas of the UWP to confuss the people but I say think about what he says you want more than he is offering just to stay in power dont allow it to happen we must make a change.
I agree. Team Dominica have the plan ready to go.
oh? is dat so? all of a sudden u c d need Mr. PM? AA i swear u were here all the time….
It’s not all of a sudden. It was always in the works.
Go ahead and start but uwp will finish it. And by the way, Dominican workers please!
Draft well show it to the people,Election comimn fool the idiots,not me,roseau has no sidwalks first you need to get an area to put all the vendors,disaster waiting to happen sad the tourist has to walk in the dirty drains.
Who else knows about Skerrit’s dream?
a P.M. with a plan to move the nation forward….viva Skerrit
That’s a good idea we really need to do it
Let’s start with clearing the streets of the capital by building a multi level parking unit to house the people who work in the city with weekly, monthly charges or 1 or 2 dollars per day or an hourly 25 cents. That could help pay for itself and running and upkeep of the structure.
Good idea as long as te cobble stones stay bc of the history associated with it
I agree.
Great Move Boss. Dont worry about these pea Brains.
Development is a Must,Not an Option
So why is NOW he want to develop Roseau? And DO NOT tell me better late than never. That is NOT an option in government.
Nothing happens before it time..UWP didnt even think of doing it…
2 Cute, You must be deaf man, or you hearing what you want to hear.
Must be the P.M. feeling embarrassed now that high raking guests have to pass through that rat hole of Roseau before they reach his Palace.
Well, something is better than nothing. A coat of paint is quick but only cosmetic. Time to get rid of all these hovels at back of yard, and give these people proper housing out of the centre of town. connect every building to the sewage system and put those ugly cables underground, it looking like overgrown spaghetti. Eh ben, I guess some smart alec politicians and lawyers already looking to buy up old property in town and vote for govt,. grant for renovation
Good luck P.M. before you run out of time. A promise is but a promise.
I wonder how your neck of the woods looking.
JoJo is not Skerrit that have Roseau the way it is he is just attempting to fix it so what’s your point???
SMFH you people carry on as if the young man that was born in 1972 is responsible for the demise in all infrastructure on the island…. even criticizing him for because he is trying to make it better, what a BIG SHAME!!!!!
Joe, I’m not blaming Roosevelt for the state he found Roseaui in. That is an old thing. Even Troloppe in the 19th. century, when he visited Roseau wrote:”It is impossible to conceive a more distressing sight. Every house is in a state of decadence. There are no shops that can properly be so called. Everything seems to speak of desolation, apathy and ruin”. That was under the British, and not much seems to have changed. I do question Roosevelt’s motives and the lack of real action in the ten years he has been in power and he tolerated a useless mayor.Wasn’t part of the U.S.$.40 million loan from the Chinese bank intended to upgrade Roseau?? That to me always had more priority than a State Palace or even a stadium. I wish him luck because it is not easy but it is he who wants to be the miracle worker and achieve where others have failed. Honest if he succeeds I will applaud him.
The problem Joe, he is not going to fix this mess. As usual, it is just an election promise. Lets give someone else a chance to fix Roseau, so that our next generation can profit, enjoy a better environment. Promising, and neglecting is an insult to everyone especially we, who have growth and prosperity as our goal. A stagnant city, capital is not what we want to see, or live with after all these tears. It is a shame for every living Dominican today
.
If it is a rat hole it did not just become one. It was one when your government was in power.
In 2009 Matthew Walters said that the ruling DLP was going to make Roseau ” THE PREMIER CITY” of the Caribbean. Just last month the ruling DLP government again
told the world of their plans to imporove Roseau, and now again, more plans are announced about improving Roseau. Well none of these plans are materializing. Just the same talk, talk, talk. What do they think? That Dominicans are stupid. Well we deserve better than that from the people we put there to serve us, and spend our tax dollars. We are tired of those EMPTY promises.
So you agree that it was in the works all along?
when ever the opposition have a program that speaks to interesting projects of some sort, the pm comes and promise the same after…
notice I put pm in small letters. their ideas were exhausted a long time ago.. NO VISION
It’s not only PM. Most of your writing is in small letters where capitals are needed except two words. It’s just who you are.
Parking building would be good instead of vehicles blocking town
Forget about parking within the city… instead replace this with a shuttle with various hubs outside of the downtown area. This would get rid of the horrible congestion, traffic noice, fumes and CREATE EMPLOYMENT. Anyway you slice it, it is a win-win for all.
I’m not putting my vehicle in no parking building in Roseau. Paros stealing my hub caps and windscreen wipers , if not the whole wheel before I go home. No sir, that would be a thief’s paradise.
We do not have money for this so why do it as a small project? Years ago, if I can recall the freedom party spoke of this…and maybe the UWP also spoke of re-doing all of Roseau with Kuwaiti funds. This is not new. Quite possibly we already had some architectural plans too. Maybe we can do other things like paying our students bills and saving some face by paying the UN membership fee instead?
Already paid.
Such big dreams. Remember what dreams are made from, especially when you are in that realm of sleep. Dream on Mr. Prime Minister.
If anybody can pull that off it is Prime Minister Skerrit.
Well, all this time in office so far, he has not kicked off anything. l wonder if he could raise his foot.
try fixing all the roads in roseau first.. see how hard that is for public works to do. Then multiple that by a hundred (maybe a lot more than 100) and see how hard it is to move people who live in slums and broken down houses, electical, plumbing, etc so you can fix roseau. The people of roseau will protest to the transformation because it will seriously affect their present quality of life and possibly displace them for some time. YES OUR CAPITAL NEEDS TO LOOK LIKE A CAPITAL OF A COUNTRY and not some backward village…but its very complicated to do. we have created more problems for ourselves over the years of “development” with no comprehensive thought or plan. it is now time to fix major mistakes.
I used to live in Roseau by cork street, then up good will, fond Cole, Canefeild etc. All those places have seen major transformations over the years. Roseau will be beautiful once again… every city goes through its renaissance phase its time for Roseau to shine!!!
to hell with pm skerrit. too little too late
That man never stops working.
one word. I G N O R A N T!
Lets work hand in hand Dominicans stop fighting
Dominicans my people give our prime minister a break, what’s wrong with u all?Y can’t we just work together and support our PM,? Wait and see what he does before before u all jump to his collar, He’s done allot, I went Dominica after 25years and their is a big change in DA.,ALLOT,MY people stop ,Look around ,Lets Work Hand in HAND and Build Our Dominica,